Keneally to get nod for Senate seat

The Australian reported on Wednesday the two strongest potential contenders, unions bosses Tony Sheldon and Tara Moriarty, would not be standing for the position.

That would leave Ms Keneally contesting the post against two former state MPs, Virginia Judge and Barry Collier.

NSW Labor secretary Kaila Murnain told AAP nominations would formally open next week and close on February 1, and the party's administrative committee would confirm who fills the vacancy the following day.

Mr Dastyari announced he was quitting politics late last year amid scrutiny of his dealings with a Chinese businessman and political donor.

Transport Workers Union national secretary Tony Sheldon had been mentioned as a possible candidate.

However Mr Sheldon told reporters on Wednesday: "I have not put my name forward at this point to make a formal nomination.